Use a Hanging Dragons Breath Plant to Freshen up Your Space

If you’re looking for a way to add some greenery to your living space, a hanging Dragon’s Breath plant is a great option. These plants are known for their vibrant red foliage and unique shape, making them a popular choice among plant lovers.

Not only do Dragon’s Breath plants look beautiful, but they also have several benefits that can help improve the air quality in your home or office. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes these plants so special and how you can use them to freshen up your space.

What is a Dragon’s Breath Plant?

Dragon’s Breath is the common name for Gynura aurantiaca, a plant native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is often referred to as velvet plant or purple passion vine due to its soft, fuzzy leaves.

The plant gets its name from its bright red leaves that resemble flames or dragon scales. The leaves have a velvety texture and can grow up to 2-3 inches long. The stems of the plant are also reddish-purple in color, making it a stunning addition to any room.

How to Care for Dragon’s Breath Plants

If you’re interested in adding a Dragon’s Breath plant to your collection, here are some tips on how to care for them:

Light

Dragon’s Breath plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can burn their delicate leaves. Place them near a window that gets plenty of sunlight but make sure they’re not in direct line of the sun’s rays.

Water

These plants like to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water them once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Make sure the pot has good drainage so that excess water can escape.

Humidity

Dragon’s Breath plants thrive in high humidity environments. If the air in your home is dry, you can mist the leaves with water or place a humidifier nearby.

Temperature

These plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid exposing them to extreme temperature changes and keep them away from drafts.

Soil

Dragon’s Breath plants do well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.

Benefits of Dragon’s Breath Plants

Aside from their stunning appearance, Dragon’s Breath plants also have several benefits that make them a great choice for indoor spaces:

Air Purification

Like many other plants, Dragon’s Breath plants are known for their air-purifying properties. They can help remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air, making your living space healthier.

Stress Reduction

Studies have shown that having plants around can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. The vibrant color and unique shape of Dragon’s Breath plants can help create a calming atmosphere in your home or office.

Aesthetics

Let’s face it – plants just look nice. Adding a Dragon’s Breath plant to your space can help bring some color and life to an otherwise dull room.

FAQs

Can I grow Dragon’s Breath plants outdoors?

Yes, Dragon’s Breath plants can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-11. They prefer partial shade and well-draining soil.

Are Dragon’s Breath plants toxic to pets?

Yes, these plants are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. Make sure to keep them out of reach of pets or choose a different plant if you have furry friends at home.

How often should I fertilize my Dragon’s Breath plant?

You can fertilize these plants once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced fertilizer.

Can I propagate my Dragon’s Breath plant?

Yes, these plants can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting with several leaves and place it in water or soil. Keep it moist and in a bright, indirect location until roots form.